Lemon Brownies

Lemon brownies, a delightful twist on traditional dessert bars, offer a burst of citrusy brightness that can awaken your senses and brighten up any gathering. With their soft, chewy texture and tangy flavor, these brownies blur the line between a cake and a brownie, providing a light yet indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a casual get-together, or simply craving a sweet bite, lemon brownies are an excellent choice. Their vibrant lemon flavor makes them refreshing, while the added glaze gives them a lovely sheen that is hard to resist.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Lemon Brownies

Complete Ingredients List

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (from about 1/2 lemon)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2-3 tbsp lemon juice (for glaze)
• Additional lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you’re looking to customize your lemon brownies according to dietary preferences or needs, here are some useful substitutions:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter alternative for the unsalted butter.
• Lemon Juice Alternatives: If fresh lemons are not available, you can use bottled lemon juice, but it’s best to use fresh for the best flavor.
• Sugar Alternatives: For a sugar-free version, consider using a granulated sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.

Flavor variations might include adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warmer flavor or incorporating white chocolate chips for added sweetness.

How to Make Lemon Brownies

Creating lemon brownies is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort while delivering exquisite flavors. Let’s walk through it step by step.

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies once baked. This creates a non-stick surface, making slicing and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder. This mixing will ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is essential for the baking process.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Add Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. It’s essential to start with softened butter to achieve a better texture. Next, add the two large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once combined, mix in 2 tablespoons of freshly grated lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. The lemon zest is crucial here as it adds a fresh, aromatic scent that will infuse the brownies with a bright flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now gradually add the dry mixture to the creamy mixture, stirring gently until the batter is just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense brownies.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of lemon filling your kitchen during baking is heavenly!

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the lemon brownies are cooling, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice in a bowl. Depending on your desired glaze consistency, you can adjust the amount of lemon juice. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Glaze the Brownies

Once the brownies have cooled, pour the glaze over the top and spread it evenly across the surface. For an aesthetic touch, sprinkle additional lemon zest on top for garnish. Let the glaze set before cutting into squares.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

After the glaze is set, cut your lemon brownies into squares and serve them up to your eager guests—or treat yourself to a piece!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Brownies

How to Serve Lemon Brownies

Lemon brownies are best enjoyed either at room temperature or slightly chilled. They can be cut into squares for easy serving, and their bright yellow color and glossy glaze make for an attractive presentation. If you’re serving these brownies at a gathering, consider placing them on a decorative platter with additional lemon slices for a vibrant touch.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

Pair lemon brownies with fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a pop of color. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also complement the citrus flavor nicely. For an elegant touch, dust the brownies with additional powdered sugar or serve them with a small pitcher of extra lemon glaze on the side.

Storing & Preserving Lemon Brownies

Best Storage Methods

These lemon brownies are best stored in an airtight container. They can remain at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you’d like to extend their freshness, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you want to enjoy your lemon brownies later, you can freeze them. Wrap the brownies in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container, where they can last for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours or place them in the fridge overnight. Avoid reheating them in the microwave, as this can alter their texture. Instead, enjoy them cold or let them sit out to bring back their original flavor.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Brownies Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

One common mistake when baking lemon brownies is overbaking them. Keep a close eye on your brownies during the last 5 minutes of baking to ensure they remain soft and chewy. Also, be mindful of measurement accuracy, as baking requires precision; use the correct measuring tools for dry and liquid ingredients.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Use fresh lemons for zest and juice for the best flavor and natural brightness.
• Ensure your butter is properly softened—if it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly, affecting texture.
• Allow the brownies to cool completely before glazing; warm brownies can cause the glaze to melt and become runny.

Fun Variations of Lemon Brownies

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Feel free to get creative with your lemon brownies! Add in some dried cranberries, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or even white chocolate chips for more indulgence. You can experiment with spices such as ginger or cardamom to add a unique flavor twist.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

Switching up the recipe to accommodate different diets can be fun! To create a vegan version, you can use flax eggs or aquafaba in place of eggs and a plant-based butter for the glaze. For a sugar-free version, use stevia or erythritol instead of granulated sugar for the batter and glaze, keeping in mind the flavor may differ slightly.

FAQs

What If My Lemon Brownies Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your lemon brownies are too dry, it may be because they were overbaked or the ingredients weren’t proportional. Make sure to keep an eye on them during baking and test their doneness with a toothpick—it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If they don’t set properly, allowing them extra cooling time is essential; they may firm up once cooled.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! Lemon brownies can be made a day or two in advance. Simply follow the recipe and store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Take them out a few hours before serving to allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you’re missing an ingredient, there are several potential swaps. For example, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor or use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. If you don’t have unsalted butter, salted butter can work, but decrease the added salt in the recipe.

Lemon brownies are not just a sweet treat; they embody the fresh, uplifting spirit of citrus in a delightful dessert form. With their tangy kick and chewy texture, these brownies can easily become a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re baking them for a party, a special occasion, or just because, this recipe promises bright flavors and sweet satisfaction every time. Enjoy!

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